System and Method for Controlling Various Model Train Actions

ABSTRACT

A system and method is provided for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while travelling along a route. Preferred embodiments of the present invention operate in conjunction with a model train traveling along a model train track, where at least one barcode is located. When the model train travels over the barcode, the barcode is scanned, and the barcode data is transmitted to a remote control, where a program is running. The remote control then performs at least one action, where the action is based on the barcode data and the program that is currently running. If a new program is ran, the same barcode data will result in the performance of a different action.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to model vehicles, and in particular, to a system and method for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while said model vehicle is traveling along a route.

2. Description of Related Art

For millions of consumers, operating a model device, such as a model train, is a form of entertainment. And while much of the entertainment lies in the realism of the device, operating a model train can become mundane, given the limited number of options that a user has control over (e.g., direction of travel, travel speed, whether to turn on a light, and whether to play a sound).

In an effort to provide a more enjoyable experience for the user, model train systems have been developed that provide users with objectives to be achieved. For example, Lionel™ has manufactured a model train system that monitors and displays (e.g., via a remote control) various train metrics. A processor within the remote control displays various metrics, such as fuel level, etc. These metrics are then adjusted based on operating conditions of the train. Thus, even though the model train is electric, and contains no actual fuel, the processor calculates a fuel level (or changes thereto) based on certain operating characteristics, such as train speed, train load, etc. As the fuel level changes, a fuel level gauge (e.g., on the remote control, etc.) is accordingly updated, allowing a user to know when it is time to pull the train into a fuel station in order to “refuel.”

While features like this may enhance the user's experience, over time, they too may become mundane. Especially in today's fast-paced world, where one has the option of changing the television channel, playing a different video game, or downloading a new application if they get bored. In fact, it may take more than a single visual experience to stimulate a person mentally. For example, it's not uncommon for one to watch television while they are also surfing the Internet or playing a video game.

For these reasons, it would be advantageous to develop a model vehicle system that allows a user to easily change objectives associated with a model vehicle traveling along a route. It would also be advantageous to allow a user to easily change actions that are performed while the model vehicle is traveling along the route, which may include presenting the user with at least one image on a remote control that is different from a visual of the actual model vehicle traveling along the route.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention provides a system and method for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while travelling along a route. In preferred embodiments of the present invention, the model vehicle is a model train that travels along a model train track, where at least one barcode is located. When the model train travels over the barcode, the barcode is scanned, and the barcode data is transmitted to a remote control, where a program is running. The remote control then performs at least one action, where the action is based on the barcode data and the program that is currently running. If a new program is ran, the same barcode data will result in the performance of a different action.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the model train is a boxcar and includes at least a processor, a memory device, a barcode reader, and at least one speaker. In this embodiment, the model train also include at least one transceiver, or circuitry that can be used to transmit and/or receive at least one command, either wirelessly or wired, using a known protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.). For example, the processor may use the transceiver to receive at least one command or data from a remote control, and to send data to the remote control, such as data read by the barcode reader.

In another embodiment of the present invention, the model train is an engine and includes at least a processor, a motor, a smoke unit, at least one light, at least one speaker, a memory, and a barcode reader. The model train also include at least one transceiver, or circuitry that can be used to transmit and/or receive at least one command, either wirelessly or wired, using a known protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.). For example, the processor may use the transceiver to receive at least one command or data from a remote control, and to send data to the remote control, such as data read by the barcode reader.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the model train track includes a first rail and a second rail, where a barcode is placed between the first and second rails. In this embodiment, the model train may only require one barcode reader on the bottom of the train (e.g., substantially centered). In another embodiment of the present invention, the model train track includes a first rail, a second rail, and a third rail, where the barcode is placed between either the first and second rails, or between the second and third rails. In this embodiment, the model train may require two barcode readers on the bottom of the train, a first one located on a left side of the train, and a second one located on a right side of the train.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an application operating on a smartphone can be used to function as the remote control. In this embodiment, the smartphone is configured to communicate with a website via the Internet. The website may include a server for communicating with a plurality of devices via the Internet, an application for allowing a user to download a remote control application and/or one of a plurality of different programs, as stored in a memory device. For example, the smartphone may communicate with the website to download a remote control application, which can be used to operate the model train. The application may allow the smartphone to simulate a traditional model train remote control, and allow a user to perform a plurality of function, such as increase/decrease speed, change direction, play at least one sound, turn on at least one light, produce a quantity of smoke or steam, etc.

The smartphone may also communicate with the website to download at least one of a plurality of programs. If more than one program is downloaded, a particular program can be selected by a user. Once a program is running, it can then be used to play at least one sound on the smartphone, display at least one image on the smartphone, or instruct the model train (or another model train) to perform at least one action. For example, if the barcode data includes a unique identifier (i.e., unique with respect to at least one other identifier), then the unique identifier along with the program being ran will determine the action that is to be performed. For example, in a first program, the unique identifier may trigger the starting/stopping of a stop watch, where the objective is to get around the track as fast as possible, or to have a lap time that is as close as possible to a target lap time, which may vary from lap to lap. By way of another example, in a second program, the same unique identifier may trigger a different action, such as the playing of a sound, the displaying of an image, adjusting the train's speed, etc. In other words, in a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the action to be performed various depending on the program running and the unique identifier, where different actions can be performed by running different programs (even though the unique identifier remains the same).

A more complete understanding of the system and method for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while said model vehicle is traveling along a route will be afforded to those skilled in the art, as well as a realization of additional advantages and objects thereof, by a consideration of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment. Reference will be made to the appended sheets of drawings, which will first be described briefly.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 illustrates a model train system in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention, including a model train track, a plurality of model trains configured to travel along the track, and a remote control for controlling at least one of said plurality of model trains;

FIG. 2 shows an exemplary block diagram of a first one of the plurality of model trains illustrates in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 shows an exemplary block diagram of a second one of the plurality of model trains illustrates in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4A provides a first embodiment of the model train track illustrates in FIG. 1, along with a barcode located thereon;

FIG. 4B illustrates another embodiment of the model train track illustrated in FIG. 1, along with a barcode located thereon;

FIG. 5A illustrates a barcode reader incorporated into a model train, said barcode reader being used to read a barcode located on a model train track;

FIG. 5B provides a bottom view of one embodiment of the model train depicted in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C provides a bottom view of another embodiment of the model train depicted in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 illustrates one embodiment of the remote control shown in FIG. 1, wherein said remote control is configured to communicate with a remote device (e.g., a website) via the Internet;

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary block diagram of the remote control illustrated in FIG. 6; and

FIG. 8 provides a method of controlling various model train feature in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

The present invention relates to model vehicles, and in particular, to a system and method for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while traveling along a route. The present invention further relates to a remote control that uses the data acquired by the model vehicle to perform (or initiate the performance of) a model vehicle action, where the model vehicle action is dependent on both the data acquired by the model vehicle and a program running on a remote control at the time the data is acquired.

It should be appreciated that while the present invention is described herein in terms of a model train traveling on a model train track, the present invention is not so limited. For example, the invention could be used in conjunction with any model vehicle, including, but not limited to, model cars, trucks, boats, airplanes, helicopters, or drones, traveling along a defined route (e.g., a race track, etc.) or an undefined route (e.g., an open area, air space, etc.).

In one embodiment of the present invention, as shown in FIG. 1, the system 100 includes at least one model train 120 operating on at least one model train track 130. The model train 120 (e.g., an engine, etc.) may travel around the model train track 130 by itself or be connected (e.g., via a physical link) to at least one other model train 110 (e.g., a boxcar, etc.), where either the first model train 120 pulls the second model train 110, or the second model train 110 pushes the first model train 120. In a preferred embodiment, the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120) are controlled by a remote control 150 that either communicates directly with the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120) (e.g., via either at least one wired or wireless communication path) or communicates with the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120) via at least one intermediary device 140 (e.g., via either at least one wired or wireless communication path).

In one embodiment of the present invention, the intermediary device 140 is a transformer that provides power to the model train track 130 and is configured to adjust the power applied to the track based on commands received from the remote control 150 (e.g., via a wireless communication path, etc.). In this embodiment, the remote control 150 may also be able to send other commands to the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120) via the intermediary device 140, such as commands to change direction, play at least one sound, turn on at least one light, produce a quantity of smoke or steam, etc. The commands are communicated to the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120) via either the model train track 130, itself, or via at least one wireless communication path (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.).

In another embodiment of the present invention, the intermediary device 140 is a transformer that provides power to the model train track 130 and the remote control 150 is configured to communicate commands directly to the model train(s) (e.g., 110, 120). The commands, which may be communicated via a wired communication path, such as the model train track 130, or a wireless communication path (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.), include, but are not limited to, commands to change speed (or target speed), change direction, play at least one sound, turn on at least one light, and/or produce a quantity of smoke or steam.

FIG. 2 provides an exemplary block diagram of the model train 110, which may be rolling stock, such as a boxcar. The model train 110 may include a processor 210, a memory device 220, at least one reader 230, and at least one speaker 240. The model train 110 may also include at least one transceiver 250, or circuitry that can be used to transmit and/or receive at least one command, either wirelessly or wired, using a known protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.). For example, the processor 210 may use the transceiver 250 to receive at least one command or data from a remote device (e.g., from the intermediary device 140, the remote control 150, etc.). The received data may be stored in the memory device 220, whereas the received command may be used to play at least one sound via the speaker 240 (e.g., using sound data stored in the memory device). The transceiver 250 may also be used to send data to a remote device (e.g., to the intermediary device 140, the remote control 150, etc.), such as data read by the reader 230.

It should be appreciated that the reader 230 may operate autonomously (e.g., periodically scanning for data) or may be controlled by the processor 210. While the reader 230 is preferably a barcode reader, and comprises at least one infrared (IR) light emitting diode (LED) transmitter/detector, the present invention is not so limited. For example, the reader 230 can be any type of reader and/or sensor generally known to those skilled in the art (e.g., barcode reader, RFID reader, magnetic sensor, optical sensor, IR sensor. etc.), as long as its capable of reading/sensing information positioned along the model train track 130.

FIG. 3 provides an exemplary block diagram of the model train 120, which may be an engine. The model train 120 may include a processor 310, a motor 320, a smoke unit 330, at least one light 340, at least one speaker 350, a memory 360, and at least one reader 370. The model train 120 may also include at least one transceiver 380, or circuitry that can be used to transmit and/or receive at least one command, either wirelessly or wired, using a known protocol (e.g., Bluetooth, etc.). For example, the processor 310 may use the transceiver 380 to receive at least one command or data from a remote device (e.g., from the intermediary device 140, the remote control 150, etc.). The received data may be stored in the memory device 360, whereas the received command may be used to play at least one sound via the speaker 350 (e.g., using sound data stored in the memory device), turn on at least one light 340, produce a quantity of smoke (or steam) via the smoke unit 330, change direction via the motor 320, or change speed (or target speed) via the motor 320. The transceiver 380 may also be used to send data to a remote device (e.g., to the intermediary device 140, the remote control 150, etc.), such as data read by the reader 370.

It should be appreciated that the reader 370 (as with the reader 230) may operate autonomously (e.g., periodically scanning for data) or may be controlled by the processor 310. While the reader 370 is preferably a barcode reader, and comprises at least one infrared (IR) light emitting diode (LED) transmitter/detector, the present invention is not so limited. For example, the reader 370 can be any type of reader and/or sensor generally known to those skilled in the art (e.g., barcode reader, RFID reader, magnetic sensor, optical sensor, IR sensor. etc.), as long as its capable of reading/sensing information positioned along the model train track 130.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that there are pros and cons to adding a reader to an engine versus rolling stock, such as a boxcar. For example, if the reader is added to the engine, a single transceiver (or a single communication path) can be used to both receive data and commands from a remote device (e.g., to control speed, etc.) and to transmit data to the remote device (e.g., data read by the reader). However, engines are generally more costly to manufacture, and therefore less likely to be purchased by a user. If, on the other hand, the reader is added to a boxcar, it is more likely to be purchased by the user since rolling stock is generally less costly to manufacture. However, if the reader is added to the boxcar, a plurality of transceiver (or communication paths) will be needed, including one in the engine to receive data and commands from a remote device (e.g., to control speed, etc.), and one in the boxcar to transmit data to the remote device (e.g., data read by the reader).

FIG. 4A illustrates one embodiment of a model train track 130, where the track includes a first rail 410 and a second rail 420. In this embodiment, the barcode 450 is placed (e.g., laid, affixed, etc.) between the first rail 410 and the second rail 420. FIG. 4B illustrates another embodiment of a model train track 130, where the track includes a first rail 410, a second rail 420, and a third rail 430. In this embodiment, the barcode 450 is placed (e.g., laid, affixed, etc.) between either the first rail 410 and the second rail 420, or between the second rail 420 and the third rail 430. Because the model train track may be user-configurable and easily changed, and because the barcode is intended to be used with a program operating on a remote control that may also be changed, the barcode should preferably be removable, so that it can be placed in a different location, depending on the track arrangement and/or the program operating on the remote control. While the barcode is shown as being printed on a substrate, which can then be placed on the model train track, the present invention is not so limited. For example, the barcode may printed on a sticker, which can then be placed on the model train track, or can be printed on (or otherwise affixed to) a section of track, which can then be used as part of the model train track.

FIG. 5A shows a side-view of a model train 500 that includes a reader 510 oriented in a downward direction. By orienting the reader 510 in this fashion, the reader 510 can be used to read (or scan) the barcode 450 when the model train 500 travels over a portion of the model train track 130 that includes the barcode 450. The data read from the barcode 450 can then be transmitted to the remote control (not shown), which is preferably done immediately after the barcode 450 has been read, or the data encoded therein has been acquired by the model train 500. It should be appreciated that the data encoded in the barcode can be anything from a bit of data (e.g., a zero or a one) to a complex data string (e.g., a unique identifier, data that identifies a particular program, data that identifies a particular command, data that identifies a particular action (e.g., a sound, etc.), or any combination thereof). It should also be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to use of a barcode to store and/or transmit this data. As discussed above, other forms (e.g., RFID, magnetic, optical, IR, etc.) can be used as long as a corresponding type of reader/sensor is included in the model train.

The location of the reader in the model train may depend on the type of model train track that is being used. For example, if the track is a two-rail track, such as the one shown in FIG. 4A, then the reader 510 may be positioned on the bottom of the model train 500, roughly centered, as shown in FIG. 5B. However, if the track is a three-rail track, such as the one shown in FIG. 4B, then a first reader 510 may be positioned on the bottom of the model train 500, toward a first side (e.g., left side) of the train, and a second reader 520 may be positioned on the bottom of the model train 500, toward a second side (e.g., right side) of the train, as shown in FIG. 5C. It should be appreciated that these are not hard-and-fast-rules, and other reader configurations may also work. For example, a single reader may have a wide enough viewing angle that is can read a barcode place between first and second rails or second and third rails of a three-rail track.

In one embodiment of the present invention, an application operating on a smartphone can be used to function as the remote control. For example, as shown in FIG. 6, a smartphone 610 having a display 620 and at least one hard key 630 is configured to communicate with a remote device 650 (e.g., a website) via the Internet 640. The remote device 650 may include a server 660 for communicating with a plurality of devices via the Internet, an application 670 for allowing a user to download data (e.g., applications, programs, etc.) stored in a memory device 680. For example, the smartphone 610 may interface with the remote device 650 to download a remote control application, which can be used to operate the model train. The application may allow the smartphone 610 to simulate a traditional model train remote control, and allow a user to perform a plurality of function (e.g., via the touchscreen 620 and/or the hard keys 630), such as increase/decrease speed (or target speed), change direction, play at least one sound, turn on at least one light, produce a quantity of smoke or steam, etc.

The smartphone 610 may also interface with the remote device 650 to download at least one of a plurality of different programs. If more than one program is downloaded, a particular program can be selected by either a user (e.g., via the touch screen 620 or hard keys 630) or by the barcode data (or a portion thereof). Once a program is running, it can then be used to play sounds and/or display images on the smartphone, where a particular sound is played and/or a particular image is displayed in response to receiving the barcode data (or a portion thereof). In other embodiments of the present invention, the barcode may also trigger the model train(s) to take at least one action, such as increasing or decreasing speed, changing direction, playing at least one sound, turning on at least one light, producing an amount of smoke or steam, etc.

It should be appreciated that while the remote control is described herein in terms of a smartphone, the present invention is not so limited. For example, the remote control may be a traditional remote control, dedicated for controlling a model train, where the programs are either downloaded (e.g., via the Internet, from an external computer, etc.) or stored on a removable memory device (e.g., a thumb-drive, a memory card, etc.). The remote control may also be a general purpose computer or tablet, where the remote control application (or program) and the plurality of programs are downloaded (e.g., via the Internet, from an external hard-drive, etc.) or stored on a removable memory device (e.g., a thumb-drive, a memory card, a compact disc, etc.).

As discussed above, if the barcode data (or a portion thereof) identifies an action to be performed, the action can either be performed by the model train that reads the barcode, the remote control, or another model train. For example, if the barcode identifies a particular sound to be played, the sound can either be played by a speaker on the model train that scanned the barcode (see, e.g., FIG. 2 at 240 or FIG. 3 at 350), by a speaker portion of the remote control, or by a speaker on another model train (e.g., the barcode data being sent to the remote control, where it is used to transmit a command to another model train to play a particular sound on a speaker). Other commands (e.g., increasing speed, decreasing speed, changing directions, producing smoke or steam, etc.) can be performed using the same method. For example, if the barcode data includes an instruction to increase speed, the barcode data could be sent from a first model train (e.g., a boxcar) to the remote control, and then used by the remote control to transmit a command to a second model train (e.g., an engine) to increase speed.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the barcode data is merely a unique identifier, which could be any value that is distinguishable from at least one other value (e.g., 0, which is distinguishable from 1, or 215, which is distinguishable from 216, etc.). In this embodiment, it is the value in combination with the program that triggers the at least one action. For example, in a first program, which may be a first video game, the unique identifier (i.e., the barcode data) may be understood to be a start point and/or a finish line, where the objective is to get around the track as fast as possible, or to have a lap time that is as close as possible to a target lap time. Thus, the unique identifier triggers the starting and/or stopping of a stop watch. By way of another example, in a second program, which may be a second video game, the same unique identifier may be associated with a sound, trigging at least one sound to be played (e.g., by the smartphone, the model train, another model train, etc.), an image, triggering at least one image to be displayed (e.g., on the smartphone), a light, triggering at least one light to be turned on or to blink on and off (e.g., by the model train, another model train, etc.), smoke, triggering a quantity of smoke or steam to be produced (e.g., by the model train, another model train, etc.), etc. In other words, the action to be performed various depending on the program running and the unique identifier, where different actions can be performed by running different programs (even though the unique identifier remains the same).

It should be appreciated that the present invention is not limited to the use of one barcode, and can include any number of barcodes, placed anywhere on the model train track. It should also be appreciated that if any barcode includes a unique identifier, that identifier only has to be unique from one other identifier and does not have to be unique from all identifiers. For example, if a first value (together with a first program) indicates that speed should be varied (e.g., randomly), and a second value (together with the first program) indicates that a horn should be played, then a first barcode having the first value and being at a first location would result in the train's speed being varied, a second barcode having the second value and being at a second location would result in the train's horn being played, and a third barcode having the first value and being at a third location would result in the train's speed being varied (yet again).

While each program may be configured to perform (or initiate the performance of) a different action depending on the unique identifier scanned, each program may also provide different visuals to the user. For example, a first program may be a first video game where, while the model train is moving around the track, a display portion of the remote control can be used to display a train (e.g., the train, another train, etc.) moving around a track (e.g., the track, another track, etc.). While the actual train may only be traveling around the track, the train on the display can include other visuals (e.g., virtual reality or augmented reality if a camera is being used to show the actual train on the display), such as backgrounds, obstacles, things that should be hit (or interacted with), things that should not be hit (or avoided), etc., where certain visuals are based on certain barcodes being scanned. For example, a first barcode (first ID No.) may start a timer, a second barcode (second ID No.) may set the virtual train on fire (e.g., where the train is difficult to operate while it is on fire, etc.), a third barcode may put the fire out, etc. If the user gets bored, the user can merely download and/or start a new program, which may be a new video game, or merely provide new visuals, like a different background, etc. The new program may also provide new objectives, like travel to a passenger station (where a first barcode is located), then travel to a re-fueling station (where second barcode is located), etc.

FIG. 7 provides an exemplary block diagram of the remote control 610 in one embodiment of the present invention. The remote control 610 may include a processor 710, a memory 720, and a plurality of transceivers (e.g., 730, 740 and 750), where each transceiver is configured to transmit and/or receive at least one command and/or data, either wirelessly or wired, using a known protocol. For example, the first transceiver 730 may be configured to communicate using cellular radio frequencies (e.g., Cellular band, PCS, etc.), the second transceiver 740 may be configured to communicate using Wi-Fi (or other long range protocol for wireless communication), and the third transceiver 750 may be configured to communicate using Bluetooth (or other short range protocol for wireless communication). For example, the first and/or second transceivers (e.g., 730, 740) could be used to download the remote control application and/or the plurality of programs from the remote device (e.g., via the Internet), and the third transceiver 750 (e.g., a Bluetooth transceiver) could be used to communicate with the model train(s). It should be appreciated that other transceivers may be used if additional communications are necessary (e.g., a first Bluetooth channel for communicating with a first train, a second Bluetooth channel for communicating with a second train, etc.).

It should also be appreciated that the remote control 610 may include other circuitry/components not shown. For example, the remote control 610 may include a camera (not shown) to capture video of the model train moving over the model train track and a display (see FIG. 6 at 620) to show the model train moving over the model train track. As discussed above, the model train can be shown as perceived by the camera (not shown), or together with augmented video or actions (e.g., animated birds swarming the model train, added sounds, etc.). The augmented video or actions can be triggered by the model train traveling over a particular barcode (as discussed above) or by a barcode visualized by the camera on the remote control 610 (e.g., a barcode positioned along and outside the model train track. In this embodiment, the barcode alone triggers the augmented video or action(s) (e.g., in response to the barcode being visualized by the camera). In an alternate embodiment, the barcode along with the model train triggers the augmented video or action(s) (e.g., in response to both the barcode and the model train (moving) being visualized by the camera).

A method for controlling at least one model train action in accordance with one embodiment of the present invention is shown in FIG. 8. Starting at step 800, a plurality of programs are downloaded at step 810. The plurality of programs may include, for example, a plurality of video games. At step 820, a user selects one of the plurality of programs (or games) to run. The selected program may allow the user to control a model train, while observing visuals on a display portion of the remote control. For example, the display portion of the remote control may allow the user to play a video game (e.g., achieve at least one objective) while controlling the model train. At the start of the program (or game), the user may instruct the model train to begin travelling over a model train track at step 830. When the model train travels over a barcode having data, the barcode is scanned, and data is transmitted to the remote control at step 840. Alternatively, as discussed above, the barcode could be ready by the remote control. The received data in conjunction with the running program are then used to perform (or initiate the performance of) at least one action.

For example, if the first program is running at step 850, then the received data results in the performance of (or the initiation of) a first action (e.g., playing a horn sound, etc.) at step 860, ending the process at step 890. If the second program is running at step 850, then the received data (same data) results in the performance of (or initiation of) a second action (e.g., varying the train's speed, etc.) at step 870, ending the process at step 890. If the third program is running at step 850, then the received data (same data) results in the performance of (or initiation of) a third action (e.g., showing the train being swarmed by a flock of chickens, etc.) at step 880, ending the process at step 890. In other words, if the barcode data includes an identifier, then the identifier (i.e., a single value) can be used to perform different actions, depending on the program (or game) that is in use.

Having thus described several embodiments of a system and method for linking at least one model vehicle action to data acquired by a model vehicle while said model vehicle is traveling along a route, it should be apparent to those skilled in the art that certain advantages of the system and method have been achieved. It should also be appreciated that various modifications, adaptations, and alternative embodiments thereof may be made within the scope and spirit of the present invention. The invention is solely defined by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A model train system, comprising: a model train configured to be propelled along a model train track having a plurality of rails and a barcode located between a first one of said plurality of rails and a second one of said plurality of rails, said model train comprising: at least one barcode reader oriented in a downward direction and configured to read said barcode when said at least one barcode reader is positioned over said barcode, said barcode representing a unique identifier; a transmitter configured to transmit data to a controller; and a processor configured to use said at least one barcode reader to acquire said unique identifier and to use said transmitter to transmit said unique identifier to said controller; and said controller including a user interface, allowing said user to at least control said propulsion of said model train along said model train track, said controller comprising: a transceiver configured to communicate with a remote device, said remote device comprising a memory for storing a plurality of programs; a transmitter configured to transmit data to at least control said propulsion of said model train along said model train track; a receiver configured to receive said data from said model train; and a processor configured to use said transceiver to download said plurality of programs from said remote device, to use said receiver to receive said unique identifier from said model train, and to run one of said plurality of programs at a time, said one of said plurality of programs being selected by said user via said user interface; wherein said unique identifier results in performance of a first action when a first one of said plurality of programs is running, and said unique identifier results in performance of a second action when a second one of said plurality of programs is running, said first action being different from said second action.
 2. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said model train includes at least two barcode readers, a first one of said at least two barcode readers is configured to read a barcode located between said first one and said second one of said plurality of rails and a second one of said at least two barcode readers is configured to read a barcode located between said second one a third one of said plurality of rails.
 3. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said transmitter of said model train is a Bluetooth transmitter, said receiver of said controller is a Bluetooth receiver, and said controller is a smartphone.
 4. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said controller is a smartphone and said user interface is at least a touchscreen portion of said smartphone.
 5. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said transceiver of said controller is configured to communicate with said remote device via the Internet.
 6. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said controller is a smartphone and said transceiver of said controller is configured to communicate with said remote device via a radio frequency link.
 7. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said transmitter of said controller is further configured to transmit data to said model train, said data including a command to propel said model train along said model train track.
 8. The model train system of claim 1, wherein said transmitter of said controller is further configured to transmit data to one other model train physically connected to said model train, said data including a command to propel said one other model train along said model train track.
 9. The model train system of claim 1, wherein each one of said plurality of programs is a model train game, and said performance of said first action is displaying at least one image on a screen portion of said controller.
 10. The model train system of claim 1, wherein each one of said plurality of programs is a model train game, and said performance of said first action is playing at least one sound on a speaker portion of said controller.
 11. The model train system of claim 9, wherein said unique identifier further indicates completion of at least one objective associated with a first model train game when said first one of said plurality of programs is running.
 12. A method of performing actions in a model train system, comprising: downloading to a controller a plurality of model train programs from a remote device; receiving a user request to run one of said plurality of model train programs; transmitting from said controller instructions to propel a model train along a model train track, said model train track having a plurality of rails; receiving a unique identifier from said model train, said unique identifier being encoded into a barcode located on said model train track between a first one of said plurality of rails and a second one of said plurality of rails; and performing by said controller at least one action in response to the reception of said unique identifier when said one of said plurality of model train programs is running; wherein said unique identifier results in performance of a first action when a first one of said plurality of model train programs is running, and said unique identifier results in performance of a second action when a second one of said plurality of model train programs is running, said first action being different from said second action.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of downloading a plurality of model train programs from a remote device further comprises downloading a plurality of model train games from said remote device.
 14. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of transmitting instructions to propel a model train along a model train track further comprises transmitting instructions to propel said model train along said model train track to said model train.
 15. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of transmitting instructions to propel a model train along a model train track further comprises transmitting instructions to propel said model train along said model train track to one other model train, said other model train being physically connected to said model train.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of performing at least one action in response to the reception of said unique identifier further comprises displaying at least one image on a screen portion of said controller in response to the reception of said unique identifier.
 17. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of performing at least one action in response to the reception of said unique identifier further comprises playing at least one sound on a speaker portion of said controller in response to the reception of said unique identifier.
 18. The method of claim 12, wherein said step of performing at least one action in response to the reception of said unique identifier further comprises instructing said model train to play at least one sound in response to receiving said unique identifier.
 19. A model train controller, comprising: a model train configured to be propelled along a model train track having a plurality of rails and a barcode located between a first one of said plurality of rails and a second one of said plurality of rails, said model train comprising: at least one barcode reader oriented in a downward direction and configured to read said barcode when said at least one barcode reader is positioned over said barcode, said barcode representing a unique identifier; a transmitter configured to transmit data to a controller; and a processor configured to use said at least one barcode reader to acquire said unique identifier and to use said transmitter to transmit said unique identifier to said controller; and said controller including a user interface, allowing said user to at least control said propulsion of said model train along said model train track, said controller comprising: a user interface that allows a user to at least control propulsion of a model train along a model train track, said model train track comprising a plurality of rails a plurality of transceivers configured to (i) communicate with a remote device, (ii) transmit data that controls said propulsion of said model train along said model train track, and (iii) receive data from said model train; and a processor configured to use one of said plurality of transceivers to download a plurality of model train programs from said remote device, to use one other one of said plurality of transceivers to receive a unique identifier from said model train, and to run one of said plurality of programs, said one of said plurality of programs being selected by said user via said user interface; wherein said unique identifier is encoded within a barcode located on said model train track between a first one of said plurality of rails and a second one of said plurality of rails, and is scanned by an infrared scanner on said model train; and wherein said unique identifier results in performance of a first action when a first one of said plurality of model train programs is running, and said unique identifier results in performance of a second action when a second one of said plurality of model train programs is running, said first action being different from said second action.
 20. The model train controller of claim 19, wherein said performance of said first action includes instructing one of said model train and one other model train to at least one of play at least one sound, alter a speed at which said model train is being propelled, produce one of steam and smoke, and turn on at least one light. 